The Climb

Love isn't always easy.

In-the-closet gay high school sophomore Skyler Phoenix found himself madly in love with his best friend, Cameron. As the two boys become more intimate, Skyler’s family life crumbles after his conservative and extremely religious foster parents discover their son’s secret relationship and quickly disown him.

Now, feeling lost and heartbroken, and ripped from the foster home he shared for years, Skyler struggles to understand acceptance and questions his place in an unnerving world. Piece by piece, Skyler’s defenses melt as he begins to experience unconditional love for the first time after moving in with a new foster family. With his old life behind him and new family by his side, Skyler slowly conquers his personal struggles of loss, self-love, and coming out as a gay teen. Even though he is well on his journey to acceptance, he remains unsure of how to love again.

As the nights get longer and the summer unfolds, Skyler finds himself completely enamoured with a new classmate named Kalin Mars. Remembering the love and loss of his best friend, Skyler is faced with the tough choice of guarding his emotions or allowing a new love be born from the ashes of his broken heart.

This story was amazing and evoked so many emotions: happiness, anger, sadness, empathy. I appreciate a writer who can take me on an emotional, vivid journey through a story. Thank you, Mr. Benoit-Ledoux. This book is proof that a well-written story can reach far beyond a predefined intended audience.

– Tina

I could immediately relate to the thoughts and actions of the main character, Skyler, as he struggled with reconciling his sexuality with his religion. Benoit-Ledoux realistically depicts the adverse effects that religion can have on sexuality while showing there is hope. By the end of the novel, I wanted to embrace Skyler for triumphing in an area where many still struggle.

– Chris

Reading this story was an emotional roller coaster of joy, indignation, sadness, and hope. No matter how you identify, we can all relate to aspects of Skyler's journey. From the butterflies of first love to the trials and tribulations of high school, 'The Climb' reminds us that growing up is hard work. Benoit-Ledoux has crafted a truly beautiful story.

– Josh

The Climb is an amazing book. As a straight guy with many gay friends, I thought I knew how difficult it was for them all to come out. This book helps paint a very vivid picture for the friends and family who need help understanding the difficulties that many people in the LGBT community are going through. In addition, this book serves as a great tool for those who are still waiting to come out, or are too afraid.

Damien's mind is a magical and nerdy place where fantastic heroes defend amazing worlds from dangerous villains who run amuck in an epic struggle to take over the universe. Recently, the brightest and best from this colorful cast of characters have made their way into notes, plots, stories, and novels for you to read and enjoy.

Damien strongly believes the real world we live in should be a place where LGBTQIA equality and respect are second nature and never questioned. When he's not working or spending time with his husband and their dog, Damien weaves this philosophy into the exciting lives of his characters and the fantastic space battles and romances they endure so they'll stop taking over his dreams at night.

And finally, he wants you to remember a very important thing: No matter how bad your day is at work, it’s always important to be grateful that you don’t work for a Sith Lord.

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Disclosure of Material Connection: Some of the links in the page above are "affiliate links." This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

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